Signs of Spring Are All Around Us
Reading Time: 2 min
During the spring months there is a lot to explore! Bird migration patterns, animal hibernation, seasonal changes, weather patterns, baby animals and flowers. This spring, choose a nature-related theme every week, read books on the subject and then go outside to explore. Many cities have nature centers or parks where children can observe birds, insects, weather and identify signs of spring.
Create story elements at home
A fun and engaging way to explore a spring-themed subject at home is to retell the story through drawings or crafts related to the story. Giving children the opportunity to interpret and explore characters from a book, settings and themes opens up a world of creativity and expression.
Go out and explore
After finishing a book or series, go out into nature to find the things that were most interesting.
Birds: Visit your local park (with binoculars if you have them) to observe different species of birds who are migrating to your area.
Insects: Find some logs or rocks at your local park or nature center and turn them over - it's a whole new insect world under there!
Weather: Go outside and observe the weather for a week, month or longer. Keep a log of how the weather changes every day. Is it windy? Is it sunny? How much rain fell?
Flowers: In many parts of the country spring flowers are starting to bloom. Go out to your favorite nature spot and observe the types of flowers that are emerging from their winter slumber.
Baby Animals: This one isn’t always easy to see in nature, but when you do it's a rewarding sight to see! Find a local nature trail to look for bird nests with eggs or baby birds inside. Small animals such as squirrels and groundhogs may be visible in some areas. If you are from the midwest, baby deer begin to appear in May - but don’t touch them, mom is always nearby. If all else fails, seek out a local farm that offers springtime tours. Visitors often have the opportunity to see calves, baby goats (or “Kids”), lambs and chicks.
However you explore, it’s important to remember that kids are constantly learning. Showing them new, undiscovered parts of their world that peaks their interest will create lasting memories and bonding opportunities for their parents and caregivers.
